DesignaKnit Q&A: Clear Answers Before You Buy
Compare DesignaKnit versions here.
If you’re weighing DesignaKnit, you want honest, practical answers. Below you’ll find straight talk on what it can do, how it handles shaping and fit, ways to print or save patterns, and what you actually need to run it.
Scroll down ↓ to ask your questions or share your successes with DAK.
What DesignaKnit Can Do
Is DAK only for fancy sweaters or is it good for entering your measurements, grandchildren’s measurements, etc., to make sweater patterns?
It’s good for anything from “fancy” sweaters to the most basic, to odd shapes for home decor. You can even draw a heart and it will give you stitches, rows, and instructions for knitting the shape. Hats included.
Are there presets for sizes that you are forced to use or will it do any body shape?
Yes, there are preset sizes so you don’t have to start from scratch, but everything is editable.
Can I save individual measurements and just call them up, and edit them if the person has grown? Can their patterns be saved in their own folder with their sweaters?
- You can create a pattern to your measurements and reuse those measurements again and again, or copy the original pattern, make small changes to the design, and use it again.
- You can create custom sizing tables. One for each grandchild. The tables can be edited as they grow.
I am not interested in skirts, pants, blankets, etc., so if it just does sweaters, not a problem. I love the hat patterns provided by Knit It Now, so I don’t need to be able to do those either.
One reason to draft hat patterns in DAK is the ability to easily integrate stitch patterns. For example, if you want to add “Go Dodgers” to a hat, DAK will position it exactly where you want it, vertically and horizontally, on the brim or the body.
Shaping, Fit, and Sleeves
Will it create the pattern needed for a shaped sleeve cap and the armhole shaping necessary?
Yes. You don't have to do anything for set-in sleeves. Honestly, it's best if you don't. You can still make adjustments, like a puffy, gathered set-in sleeve. In addition, you have other sleeve choices: straight (drop shoulder), raglan, set in, saddle shoulder.
Sloped shoulder?
Yes. It does that automatically and adjusts the sleeve cap accordingly.
Printing, Saving, and Working Styles
Print it off so it can be used as a printed pattern as the Knit It Now patterns are? I love that Knit It Now can be printed. Reading from a computer as knitting is not an option.
There are lots of print formats available, from Japanese Notation to printed outlines to use with charting devices like a knit leader or radar. Note: there are no knitting instructions like Knit It Now patterns. For example, it assumes you know how to cast on and work short rows.
Can I make PDF files to save?
Yes. You can create PDF files. You can even create editable text files if you want to publish your own patterns.
Is there a learning curve? Yes. Take one module at a time and turn uncertainty into “I've got this.”
Equipment and Setup
Do I have to connect it to my LK150?
No. The only reason to connect it is to use the Interactive Knitting feature, which is an electronic version of a charting device. If you can make room by your knitting machine, do not ignore this feature. It’s excellent, eliminates printing, and is very visual.
I would be using my HP laptop.
Any computer using an updated version of Windows works.
Computer System Requirements
Versions, Licensing, and How to Try It
What DAK program are you using? There are different ones.
The latest version is DAK 9, with several levels available. Unless you plan to write hand-knitting patterns, I recommend the
Machine Professional edition. Compare versions here.
Does it come with a DVD or CD?
DVD's are no longer offered. Delivery is via download.
Is there a demo I can try?
Yes. You can download it directly from the developer, Soft Byte.
Download the demo
Have any of you had problems with the licensing code working?
I have never had an issue in all the years and computers I've owned and used DAK.
Have any of you had problems when you had to get a new computer? Downloading it to a new computer, the code or license key working?
No.
Ready to get started? If you’re in the US, you can compare versions and purchase DesignaKnit directly through Knit It Now. This way you’ll know you’re getting the right edition — and you'll have expert support close at hand.
Want guided training?
When you’re ready to move from “curious” to “confident,” the LearnDesignaKnit.com All Access Pass gives you structured walkthroughs, real-world projects, and practical workflows for modules like Standard Garment Styling, Stitch Designer, Original Pattern Drafting, and Interactive Knitting.
Do you already use DesignaKnit? Your experience could make all the difference for someone considering it.
Share your tips or words of wisdom in the comments below to help a fellow knitter feel more confident.
Join the Conversation
FAQ: Quick Answers
Is DAK only for fancy sweaters?
No. It handles everything from basic garments to custom shapes and hats. You can even draw shapes and get exact rows and stitches.
Will it draft sleeve caps and armholes for me?
Yes. Set-in sleeves are fully handled. You can also choose straight, raglan, set in, or saddle shoulder options.
Does it support sloped shoulders?
Yes. It calculates sloped shoulders and adjusts the sleeve cap to match.
Are there size presets and can I edit them?
Yes to both. Start with presets and edit anything. You can also save custom sizing tables for individuals.
Can I print patterns or save PDFs?
Yes. Multiple print formats are available, plus PDF and editable text exports.
Do I need to connect to my LK150?
No. Connection is optional. It is only needed for Interactive Knitting (an electronic charting device feature).
Which version should I buy?
DAK 9 is current; we recommend the Machine Professional level. Compare versions on this site to choose.
Is there a demo?
Yes. You can try it before you buy. Download a demo from Soft Byte.
Any license or reinstall headaches?
In my experience, no. Licensing and reinstalling on a new computer have been trouble-free.
